Optical Mineralogy: Theory and Techniques v. 1

In two volumes, both of which are available for separate purchase, Optical Mineralogy provides the information necessary to identify the common rock-forming minerals in both thin section and grain mounts by means of a petrographic (polarizing) microscope. The book is intended for use as a textbook by undergraduate students in geology and as a reference by mineralogists and geochemists studying crystallography and crystal chemistry. The first of the two volumes describes theory and techniques, emphasizing the use of grain mounts as these facilitate the understanding of optical theory. It is sufficiently detailed to enable students to learn the necessary theory and techniques without constant recourse to their tutors. This is accomplished by a detailed discussion, a minimum of terminology and a large number of explanatory diagrams.